Student Research Reports
Soil characteristics and their effect on the quality of red onion plant in Al Zulfi Governorate
Organization(s):Prince Sultan Intermediate School at Al-Zulfi
Country:Saudi Arabia
Student(s):Faris Saud Al Fahad
Dhari Abdulaziz Aljabr
Grade Level:Middle School (grades 6-8, ages 11-14)
GLOBE Educator(s):Swaeid M Al-Batel
Contributors:
Report Type(s):International Virtual Science Symposium Report, Standard Research Report
Protocols:Alkalinity, Conductivity, pH, Salinity, Soil Fertility, Soil pH
Presentation Poster:
View Document
Language(s):English
Date Submitted:02/09/2025
Onions are one of the most widely used foods in the world. According to United Nations estimates, at least 175 countries grow onions, which are often used in all major dishes worldwide. Therefore, it can actually be considered a common food component among the countries of the world. It is worth mentioning the flavor this plant gives to food in addition to the nutritional elements it contains that are of high value to the human body. Due to its many uses in all meals, this has led to an increase in its international and local consumption and thus it has become of economic value to many countries and individuals. This research aims to determine the relationship between the quality of red onion plants in the city of Zulfi in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the type of soil, especially acidity, salinity and conductivity, on the quality of the onion, which is the most vital part of the plant and the most important for the farmer, with the aim of knowing the relationship between the physical behavior of the soil and the quality of the red onion plant. Therefore, the main research question is based on investigating how the differential properties of the soil affect the growth and quality of the red onion plant. The objectives of the study focus on the contrast between two areas with similar water quality but different soil types, Area 1 and Area 2. The effects on red onion quality are studied, and observations were made at the beginning of plant cultivation in October in Al Zulfi Governorate. These results indicate a positive relationship between soil pH levels and the quality of onions produced. These changes included smaller onions (17.5 cm diameter) found in Area 2 with higher pH (pH 8.1) than onions found in Area 1 with better soil conditions. The good practice guidelines emphasize the need for farmers to apply their knowledge regarding soil properties before planting. This calls for consulting experts and selecting suitable plants, using a good irrigation system, applying required fertilizers, and contacting agricultural authorities for soil analysis in case of low crop production. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the role of soil properties, especially acidity, in the quality of red onion plants. Farmers who know their soil properties can improve soil conditions and thus enhance crop yields.